What is bulimia?
Bulimia nervosa – frequently just called bulimia – is an eating disorder characterized by patterns of bingeing (consuming a large amount of food in a short amount of time) and purging (eliminating calories consumed).
Among the most common means of purging are:
- Vomiting
- Laxative use
- Diuretic use
- Excessive exercise
Bulimia symptoms are generally accompanied by negative body image — in other words, an unhealthy relationship with one’s body size, weight and shape, as well as obsessive thoughts about food and eating.
Bulimia is also commonly accompanied by mood, anxiety and substance abuse disorders including depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and alcohol/drug use.
Seek help for bulimia
Bulimia facts show that the health risks of bulimia are serious and can have long-lasting effects if not properly treated.
If you are concerned about yourself, or a loved one, please reach out for help. Our eating disorder treatment centers across the nation provide specialized bulimia treatment.
We encourage you to call us at 877-825-8584 so we can help you or your loved one begin the healing process.